Writing in his latest column, Temba Bavuma, who recently led the Proteas to a landmark 2-0 Test series win over India, suggests that while Gambhir is "feeling the heat" in the red-ball arena, the continued presence of stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in limited-overs cricket is acting as a vital insurance policy for his coaching tenure.
According to Bavuma, India remains a "different kettle of fish" in shorter formats. Following their Test defeat, India bounced back to win the ODI series 2-1 and the T20I series 3-1 against South Africa.
In ODIs, Kohli and Rohit will naturally take on a lot more responsibility... So I think Gambhir will be okay in terms of his position. However, from a red-ball point of view, it’s going to be toughTemba Bavuma
With Rohit and Kohli committed to the road leading to the 2027 ODI World Cup, Gambhir can rely on their experience to manage the dressing room and deliver results.
India’s vast white-ball resources and the advantage of co-hosting the 2026 T20 World Cup next month provide a "safe harbour" while the Test team struggles.
Bavuma compares India's current Test predicament to South Africa's rebuilding phase in 2019. Currently sitting fifth in the World Test Championship, India is grappling with a lack of continuity and key injuries.
Bavuma admitted that the Proteas "exploited" the absence of India’s Test captain, Shubman Gill, who missed the second Test in Guwahati due to a neck injury.
Makeshift leadership: With Gill out, India was forced to rely on Rishabh Pant as a makeshift captain and a shuffled middle order, which disrupted the team's tactical equilibrium.
The "Horses" metaphor: Bavuma warns that Gambhir must eventually pick his "horses" and back them to "gallop" through away tours in New Zealand and beyond.
Despite the contrasting fortunes, Bavuma is firmly against splitting the coaching roles for India.
Continuity over confusion: Having one coach across all formats ensures a consistent philosophy and playing style.
BCCI’s long-term vision: Bavuma believes the "men in suits" at the BCCI have a 2-4 year plan for Gambhir, prioritizing stability over short-term reactionary changes.